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Democracy watchdogs tackles Orji Uzor Kalu over Muslim-Muslim ticket promotion
A coalition of many civil society organizations drawn across the country has tackled former Abia state Governor and serving Senate Chief Whip, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu over his comments which sought to promote the possibility of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a text of media briefing signed by Dr. Nwakor Chibuzor which was made available to journalists in Abuja Thursday evening, the group under the auspices of Coalition of Democratic Watchdogs of Nigeria said such endorsement by Dr. Kalu shows signs of someone who is out of touch with prevailing arrangement as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.
It could be recalled that the issue of choosing a running mate by the two main political parties (that is, the APC and the PDP) has dominated the media space and national discuss especially as the electoral management body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued notice to the effect that 17th June, 2022 is the deadline for the submission of names for the Vice Presidential Candidates for all political parties.
According to the watchdogs, “the fundamental issue is the combination in terms of the Muslim/Christian ticket or the Muslim/Muslim ticket. In other words, a Muslim from the North, and a Christian from the South or vice-vasa. This balance essential is to ensure that equitable representation of both Muslims and Christians alike in the nations highest executive arm of government.
”Moreover, the 1999 construction of the federal republic of Nigeria as amended provides for the Federal Character in order to ensure equity, balance and fare representation across the nation.
“You would all agree with me that the Nigerian state has never been this polarized, aligned and divided along religious and tribal sentiments and affiliations. Hence both the AREWA and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)has warned against the looming jeopardy that would associate the Muslim/Muslim ticket by the APC in the country if Bola Tinubu make the mistake of fielding the Muslim/Muslim ticket”.
They therefore wondered why Dr. Kalu is out to promote such an agenda.
The rest of the text of their address reads:
Now, the Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, an estwhile governor of Abia State who is a Christian, emphatically stated his unalloyed support for a Muslim/Muslim ticket for the APC Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu. We are still wondering why he tow this part of dishonor.
He further emphasized that his own interest is for the APC to win the election. In other words, for the Chief Whip, equity does not matter, fair representation for Christians and Muslims alike doesn’t matter, the provision of Federal Character as entrenched in the Nigerian constitution does not matter, for him, it is all about winning election.
Recall also that the same Orji Uzor Kalu had previously declared his unalloyed support for the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan. He even stated that he prefers to be a cleaner in the Aso Rock Villa provided that Ahmed Lawan wins as President of the federal republic of Nigeria.
We doubt if any christian has embarked on this unholy mission in Nigerian history. How did the people of Abia North Senatorial District deteriorate to this level? It is unfortunate because the good people of Abia North does not deserve to have their representative tow this line.
By this utterance of Orji Kalu, the people of Abia North who are 100% Christians should immediately commence a recall of Orji Kalu from the Senate as it is evident that he is not representating Abia North anymore. People like Orji Uzor should not be found in public service as his personal interest conflicts with the public demands of his office. For oscillating like a pendulum, from Ahmed Lawan to Tinubu, and to Muslim/Muslim ticket, Uzor Kalu has demonstrated inconsistency and no recourse whatsoever to the people of Abia North he is representing. Therefore, he should be treated as his ill-conduct depicts. Orji Uzor Kalu is an anti-christian, anti-Igbo and anti Abia North.
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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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